Yorktown and Banquete first met in 1980, when the Wildcats earned a 29-18 win. The two programs renewed the series in recent years, with Yorktown claiming the most recent matchup in 2024 by a 34-14 score.
Banquete is looking to turn the page after finishing 3-7 overall and 1-5 in district play last season. The Bulldogs enter 2025 under new leadership, as the former offensive coordinator steps into the head coaching role. He inherits an experienced roster, with eight starters returning on offense and nine on defense.
Running back Abraham Chapa will look to lead the Bulldogs’ offense this season, after finishing with 103 yards and one touchdown on 16 carries. He’ll once again be joined by Tyler Landreth (1 carry, 8 yards) and Blas Villarreal (2 carries, 46 yards). This year, junior Bradley Gomez takes over as the full-time quarterback, tasked with leading the offense.
While only a few players graduated, Banquete lost key contributors who carried much of the load in 2024. With a strong returning core, the Bulldogs aim to be more competitive, but they were still picked to finish sixth in a tough seven-team district featuring George West, Santa Rosa, Odem, Hebbronville, Taft, and Monte Alto.
The Wildcats are predicted to come out on top of this matchup — the only question is whether they can extend the margin beyond last year’s 20point win. Yorktown will lean heavily on its powerful rushing attack with senior quarterback Brody Metting. McKenzie Yanta will add another dimension to the ground game, giving the Wildcats multiple options to wear down defenses.
Other key standouts for the Wildcat squad include tight end Ryan Knostman and receivers Mathew Olguin and Brayden Knostman. Olguin will also be a difference- maker in the secondary, giving Yorktown an impact player on both sides of the ball.
Kickoff is set for Friday, Sep 5 in Banquette at 7:00 p.m.
